World Cup 2014: Wayne Rooney apologises for England exit

"We had great belief in ourselves" - Rooney

Wayne Rooney has apologised to supporters following England's early exit from the World Cup.

The Manchester United striker, 28, wrote on his Facebook page that he was "absolutely devastated" to be out of the tournament.

Costa Rica's 1-0 victory over Italy on Friday means England cannot progress from Group D.

"Sorry to all the fans that travelled and at home that we haven't done better," Rooney posted. "Gutted."

England team-mate Jack Wilshere also apologised to fans for the failure to progress to the knockout stages in Brazil.

"Gutted doesn't come close to how I am feeling right now. Sorry to all the fans who came out and supported us, and everyone back home," tweeted the 22-year-old Arsenal midfielder.

It is the first time England have been knocked out in the group stages since 1958 and the first time they have been eliminated after just two matches.

Roy Hodgson's side were beaten by Group D rivals Italy and Uruguay.

Rooney wrote on the social networking site: "Going into each game we had great belief in ourselves but unfortunately it hasn't worked out."

The former Everton forward scored his first goal at a World Cup finals in Thursday's defeat to take his England tally to 40.

For the best of BBC Sport's in-depth content and analysis, go to our features and video page.